Cobb-Vantress honoured for export success

Cobb-Vantress is one of four Arkansas companies honoured in receiving the Governor's Award for Excellence in Global Trade in recognition of their success in developing international markets.

Arkansas is at a crossroads with respect to its place in the world economy, said governor Mike Beebe. The companies receiving the award should be an example for others to emulate, “thereby creating more jobs for Arkansans, more net worth and net wealth for Arkansas.” Arkansas companies exported $5.3 bln in goods in 2009, up from $3.9 bln in 2005.

Cobb-Vantress, which received the large agribusiness award, sells poultry breeding stock in 84 countries. In 2009, exports accounted for 17.1% of US sales, said Brian Cosgriff, the company’s marketing director.

The other winners were Keith Smith Company Inc of Hot Springs, which sells broiler hatching eggs to 11 countries including Russia; AmerCable Inc of El Dorado, which manufactures cables used in the mining, oil and gas, and energy sectors; and Weldon, Williams and Lick Inc of Fort Smith which exports tickets, passes and credentials to 66 countries.